ERBIL — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani highlighted key issues between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Iraqi federal government, emphasizing the need for adherence to the Iraqi constitution to resolve longstanding disputes.

Speaking to Al-Arabiya TV, PM Barzani expressed optimism about improved relations with the Iraqi government under Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani but noted that challenges remain. He underscored the importance of recognizing the Kurdish issue's historical roots, advocating for a partnership in Iraq that respects both Kurdish and Arab identities.

He emphasized that problems between Erbil and Baghdad go beyond salaries and oil, citing deeper issues tied to national identity, disputed territories, and the constitutional rights of Kurdistan. He reiterated the need for the constitution to serve as the ultimate guide in defining relations between the federal government and the KRG.

He also expressed concerns over the suspension of oil exports, stating that this has resulted in significant financial losses, exceeding $19 billion, with most of the impact falling on the Region. PM Barzani highlighted ongoing negotiations to address the real cost of oil extraction, emphasizing that reaching an agreement would benefit Iraq as a whole and enable the resumption of oil exports from Kurdistan.